The Kwara State Government has urged residents of the state to remain calm as the Nigerian Army begins the Kwara State leg of Its Operation Python Dance III security exercise in the state.

The Kwara State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed, gave the assurance after a meeting with the new Acting Brigade Commander, Sobi, Col. A. A. Egbejule, at Government House, Ilorin, on Monday.

Governor Ahmed said he has received a thorough briefing on the Operation from the Ag. Brigade Commander that the security operation, which is going on across the country, is designed to maintain law and order ahead of the forthcoming general elections as well as curb criminality in the state.

He, therefore, urged all residents of the state to go about their lawful activities without fear as the exercise is designed to reassure members of the public on their safety before, during and after the forthcoming general elections in the state.

Alhaji Ahmed said the Nigerian Army exercise is consistent with the decisions of the State Security Council earlier in the month and will complement other security operations already put in place. These decisions, he said, include the establishment of a joint task force to provide high visibility security presence across the state as well as enforce existing laws and regulations guiding electioneering campaigns and conduct of elections.

Alhaji Ahmed said additional measures include a mass media campaign against illegal possession of firearms in the state which is being undertaken by the state government in partnership with the state police command.